Question

Discuss the large intestine and include one usual abnormal finding

Answer 1

The large intestine extends from the ileocecal junction to the anus. It is about 1.5meter long.

Parts of large intestine include cecum, ascending colo, transverse colon, descending colon, rectum and anal canal. Rectum and anal canal situated in the pelvis and remaining parts in the abdomen. Large intestine are larger diameter and they are lacking villi in there wall.

The wall of large intestine is formed by 4 layers such as serous layer, muscular layer, submuscular layer and mucus layer.

The villi present in the mucous membrane of small intestine are absent in the large intestine. Only mucous secreting glands are present in the mucosa of large intestine.

Functions of large intestine include neutralization of acids. Strong acids formed vy bacterial action in large intestine are neutralized by the alkaline nature of large intestinal juice.

Absorptive functionis the another important function. Water, electrolytes, organic substance like glucose, alcohol, drug like anesthetic agents, aedatives and steroids are absorped in the large intestine.

Formation of feces is another function. After the absorption of nutrients, water and other substances, the unwanted substance in the large intestine form feces.

Ecretory function like excretes heavy metals like mercury, lead and arsenic through feces.

Synthetic function. Bacterial flora of large intestine syntheszies folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin K.

There are normal flora or bacteria are presented in the large intestine.

Abnormalities of large intestine include:

Vermiform appendix: Inflammation of the appendix is called appendicitis. Rupture of the infamed appendix result in infection of part of or all of the peritoneum.

Rectal cancer : Which is the cancer of rectum.

Colon cancer : Cancer of colon

Diarrhea : characterized by loose, watery stools or a frequent need to have an increased bowel movement

Crohn's disease: It is the most commonly affects the colon and the last part of the ileum. It is also know as inflammatory bowel disease.